Four-lined Chocolate Moth
Common NameFour-lined Chocolate Moth
Scientific NameHypsopygia costalis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, white
HabitatAgricultural areas, barns, hayfields, dry grasslands, stored product environments
Geographic RangeHolarctic (Europe, Asia, North America)
Host Plantsdried hay, clover, straw, stored grains
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as clover hayworms, feed on dried plant material, particularly hay and clover, often constructing silken tubes within their food source. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive glossy reddish-brown color with two clear, parallel white lines across both forewings and hindwings, and a white fringe. The prominent, upturned labial palps are also a key identifying feature.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with glossy reddish-brown wings, each marked by two prominent white transverse lines and a white fringe. The head and thorax are also reddish-brown.
